Pakistan cricket fans were left surprised when the Asia Cup 2025 squad was announced without Babar Azam. Once the cornerstone of the batting order and former captain, Babar has been left out as selectors put greater weight on strike rate and impact players.
Explaining the decision, head coach Mike Hesson said the squad was built around aggressive intent. “Farhan, Saim Ayub, and Fakhar Zaman have consistently tilted matches in the powerplay and middle overs. That’s what modern T20 cricket requires,” he said.
Babar’s middle-over strike rate and approach against spin were key concerns. Yet Hesson insisted the move should be seen as a challenge rather than rejection. “This is an opportunity for him to show improvement, especially in leagues like the BBL. He’s far too good a player not to remain in our plans,” Hesson remarked.
Director of High Performance Aaqib Javed echoed the view, saying that current form must be the benchmark for national selection. “Past records cannot guarantee a place. The PSL and BBL are the right platforms for players to prove they can deliver high-impact performances,” he said.
Pakistan’s 17-man squad, meanwhile, signals a tactical reset, putting flexibility and attacking options at the forefront. While Babar’s absence is one of the biggest talking points, at 30 he still has ample time to adapt to the evolving demands of T20 cricket.
For now, the message from management is clear: only those who deliver at a higher tempo will make the cut. Whether Babar can adjust his game quickly enough remains the story to watch in the coming months.